Megan and Ben finally got to celebrate their love at The Crystal Plaza with their friends and family this past April. After having to reschedule due to Covid-19 this was a truly joyus occasion. Everyone was ready to celebrate and it was one amazing party.
The Crystal Plaza
The day started in the newly renovated bridal suite, and omg it is truly beautiful. It’s a modern, clean, whitewashed space that made for great bridal prep photos. I always say it’s all about the lighting and this space design nailed it. We did a first look with dad in the new ceremony space as well as some portraits and this was also drool-worthy! It’s sometimes difficult to find beautiful indoor ceremony spaces but this is definitely a perfect space for an indoor wedding ceremony in NJ.
The Ceremony + PhotoShoot
Once ready, we left Crystal Plaza and headed over to Saint Philomena Church in Livingston. Fun Fact, my parent actually got married there over 40 years ago so it’s always pretty cool to photograph a wedding in the space! After the ceremony, we headed back to the Crystal Plaza where we used their beautiful back garden for the wedding portraits. Upon arrival, we were greeted by the couple’s adorable puppy, Hank. They hired Forever and Fur Always to watch this dog of honor for the day. If you are a pet lover like us make sure to check them out! We ended the evening with a romantic night shot outside in the back garden.
The Details
Adam Leffe Productions created dreamy decor that made us feel like we were in a romantic Disney movie. Most notable were the small details highlighting their love for all things Hank, with custom drink signs and a cake topper featuring their puppy. During the first dance, Megan and Ben danced on the clouds adding to the extra dreamy atmosphere.
I asked Megan and Ben to share some of their thoughts after the wedding. Here is what they said.
What was your favorite moment from your Crystal Plaza wedding day?
- After the ceremony, we had a 5 min ride in a Rolls Royce back to the venue to take pictures and that was the first time we were alone & had a moment to look at each other and say “wow did that really just happen!?” (the chilled champagne in the backseat didn’t hurt either!) Of course, I have to add one more moment because it’s too hard to choose… At this risk of sounding like crazy dog people, it was also such a special moment when our (then) 8-month old Golden Retriever, Hank, came to the venue for some pictures. It made both of us so happy and I think that brought even more energy to our pictures–plus, Hank knows how to pose for a pic! (he’s no amateur)
What made you choose to host your wedding at The Crystal Plaza?
- Originally, we were drawn to Crystal Plaza for their exquisite ballroom & unique touches. (especially around cocktail hour) While we wanted many aspects of a traditional wedding, we sought out a venue that could bring something different and special to our event. They’re known for their amazing food, but their presentation truly sets them apart– from the Prohibition-style bar with a tub of champagne, to the raw bar & Martini bar both made out of ice to dessert bites being tossed in mini parachutes from the balcony- it’s all so creative & fun. Their different spaces also frame the experience– we loved the juxtaposition between the cozy cocktail space, the grand reception ballroom and the white, contemporary “Atrium” space upstairs that we used for the after party. Lastly & the key reason we love Crystal Plaza– the team treats you like family and really goes all out to ensure the smallest details are captured.
If you could give one piece of advice to another couple planning their wedding what would it be?
Try not to plan your wedding during a pandemic… just kidding. 🙂 Overall, we’d tell other couples to find a venue that captures your vision (whether more traditional, rustic, modern, etc) and then work with each other to incorporate details that really tailor the experience to you as a couple. Then, most importantly, don’t forget to enjoy the day once it arrives!!! Take a second to look around your ceremony & reception and try to soak in the pure joy of the moment with each other. It’s surreal but amazing.
- Photographer | @offbeetproductions
- Venue | @CrystalPlaza
- Florist | @AdamLeffelProductions
- Makeup | @MakeupByStacySuarez
- Hair |@LanieMaxHair
- Video | @LVL13nj
- DJ |@LJDJS
- Wedding Gown | @AllThatGlittersOnTheGram
Bridesmaid Dresses | @AzazieOfficial - Shoes | @Sam_Edelman
- Cake | @Palermos.Bakery
- Bride | @MeganLynch13
- Groom | @Ben_jamin63
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Off BEET Productions is a boutique wedding event group located in the NJ/NY area and serving destination weddings worldwide. We specialize in natural, candid, and organic lifestyle photography. Fun and Playful music Videos and unique wedding DJ and Entertainment.
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